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Make yourself at home in the Tri-State with local Realtor Todd Nelson. Find out current market conditions in the area, what to do to prepare your home to sell, remodeling tips to maximize value, where new subdivisions are being built, about current interest rates and more.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Maximizing Value When Remodeling Your Home

Thinking about remodeling projects for your home?


Before beginning a significant remodeling project, think about what project investments would have a greater return if selling the home may be in the future. Some people may think that they never will sell, but later because of circumstances, decide to sell their home. Some of the best returns of investment come from remodeling the kitchen or bath. Believe it or not, Remodeling Magazine’s 2005 Cost Versus Value Report illustrates that doing a midrange remodel of a bathroom can translate into a national average of 102.2% recoup on the initial investment. A minor kitchen remodel consisting of such things as replacing the appliances, adding new fixtures, countertop, new flooring, painting, and changing cabinet fronts and drawers could translate into a national average of 98.5% recoup on the investment. Other ideas for remodeling and their national average recoup of investment include roofing replacement (84.7% recoup), siding replacement (95.5% recoup), window replacement (89.6% recoup), and basement remodel (90.1% recoup).Certain remodeling projects such as additions should seriously be evaluated.

The cost of additions can possibly price your home out of the market as compared to homes in your area. It may be cheaper to sell your home and buy a home that already has what you want. According to the Cost versus Value Report a bathroom addition could translate into an 86.4% recoup, a family room addition (83% recoup), and a main bedroom suite addition (82.4% Recoup). Consulting with a Realtor or licensed appraiser before such additions are added is highly recommended. Adding nice landscaping also can increase curb appeal and translate into more money when selling a home.

First impressions of a home are often made from the exterior upkeep of the home so improving what buyers see first can improve the outlook of selling a home. Inexpensive ways to improve the condition and appeal of a home include such items as painting, changing hardware on kitchen cabinets, replacing certain light fixtures and faucets, and an overall good cleaning of the home. For more information contact at todd@toddnelson.com or by calling (304) 733-7158.